Same-day audio for high court gay marriage cases

WASHINGTON—The Supreme Court will release audio recordings of next week's arguments in two gay marriage cases just a few hours after they conclude.

The court will post audio files and transcripts on its website (http://www.supremecourt.gov ) roughly two hours after the end of the proceedings on March 26 and March 27.

The justices will hear arguments over California's ban on same-sex marriage on Tuesday and the federal Defense of Marriage Act on Wednesday.

The justices have never allowed cameras inside the courtroom, but occasionally provide same-day audio for cases with unusually high public interest.

The most recent instance was last year's health care case. The first time was for the Bush v. Gore argument over the disputed outcome in Florida's presidential vote in 2000.

In recent years, the court has posted the audio from arguments on its website at the end of the week in which they take place. Argument transcripts are routinely available a few hours after the justices hear a case.

Reporters are not allowed to carry recorders or cameras into the courtroom.